Testicular cancer - Prevention 

Testicular cancer cannot usually be prevented, so it is important to check your testicles regularly. Cancer is easier to treat when it is diagnosed early on. If you regularly examine your testicles, you are likely to notice any swelling or abnormalities when they are at an early stage of development.

Checking your testicles

The best time to check your testicles is after a warm shower or bath because this is when your scrotal skin will be most relaxed.

Hold your scrotum in the palms of your hands, and use your fingers and thumbs to examine your testicles. You should first feel the size and weight of your testicles. A lot of men have one testicle which is larger than the other. You may also have one testicle that hangs slightly lower than the other.

If you notice any significant increase in the size or weight of your testicles, it could be a sign that something is wrong. See your GP for advice.

As well as feeling the size and weight of your testicles, gently feel each testicle individually.

When you examine your testicles, they should feel smooth with no lumps or swellings. You should be able to feel a soft, tube-like section at the top and back of each testicle. This is your epididymis, which is used to store sperm. It may feel slightly tender, which is perfectly normal.

It is very rare to develop cancer in both testicles. Therefore, if you are unsure about what your testicle should feel like, try comparing it to your other one.

If you find a lump or a swelling while checking your testicles, visit your GP as soon as possible.

Smoking

Of all of the known risk factors for testicular cancer, smoking is the one risk factor you can address. If you smoke, giving up will half your risk of developing testicular cancer, as well as reducing your risk of getting many other serious health conditions, such as lung cancer and heart disease.

If you decide to stop smoking, your GP will be able to refer you to an NHS Stop Smoking Service, which will give you dedicated help and advice about the best ways to give up. You can also call the NHS Smoking helpline on 0800 022 4 332. Specially trained helpline staff can offer you free expert advice and encouragement.

If you are committed to giving up smoking but do not want to be referred to a stop smoking service, your GP should be able to prescribe medical treatment to help with any withdrawal symptoms you may have after quitting.

See the Health A-Z topic about Smoking - treatment and the Live Well section about how to stop smoking for more information.